Tangzha Beishi Scenic Area in Chongchuan district kicks off its bustling Chinese New Year Market on Feb 1. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

As Spring Festival approaches, Tangzha Beishi Scenic Area in Chongchuan district has kicked off its bustling Chinese New Year Market, offering a feast that combines folk traditions, specialty foods, and cultural performances for both residents and tourists. 

Over 100 vendors are neatly arranged, with red lanterns hanging high in the ancient streets and alleys. 

The goods area offers a full range of specialty agricultural products and premium gift boxes. In the food area, freshly crafted sugar paintings, pastries, and trendy snacks draw long lines of residents. Meanwhile, the cultural and creative section exhibits an array of handwritten Spring Festival couplets, paper-cut window decorations, and intangible cultural heritage crafts, inviting people to immerse themselves in the charm of traditional folk customs. 

In addition to the lively market, cultural performances are dazzling, with saxophone ensembles, Yueju Opera, and Peking Opera taking the stage in turn, each receiving continuous applause from the audience. 

The performances on stage attract a large audience. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

Next to the stage, a long banquet table serves 22 Nantong specialty dishes, including Tangzha crispy cakes, crab roe buns, fried rice cakes, and seasoned duck, all with a tantalizing aroma. 

The Tangzha Beishi Chinese New Year Market drew more than 36,000 visitors in the first two days, with total sales reaching nearly 600,000 yuan ($86,435.89), ushering in the Year of the Horse with a lively, festive atmosphere.